The Trans States Airlines Blog

This week Recruiting launched a new video touting the benefits of our Captain Qualified First Officer (CQFO) program. This program allows pilots who meet Captain requirements to fly as either a Captain or a First Officer, depending on the airline’s scheduling needs. CQFOs earn a Captain’s wage when flying as a Captain and a First Officer’s wage when flying as a First Officer. However, given their experience level, CQFOs earn a higher First Officer wage than that of a traditional First Officer.

In additional to making it financially feasible for pilots at other regionals to launch new careers here, this program also gives pilots the opportunity start earning Pilot in Command (PIC) time immediately, making it an ideal solution for those who have spent years waiting to upgrade.

Featured in the video is Trans States CQFO Marlon Choyce. Marlon joined us this summer after spending four years in the right seat at another regional. Marlon’s ultimate career goal is to fly for a mainline carrier. However, mainline jobs require PIC time, which Marlon was unable to acquire in the right seat. Marlon cites the opportunity to start earning PIC time, as well as the CQFO wage structure, as the two driving forces behind his decision to leave his previous First Officer position for a CQFO position with us. In fact, Marlon said that even though he’s brand new to the company, he’s earning more per flight hour than he did after four years at his previous carrier.

If you know pilots at other regionals who have become frustrated with long upgrade times, encourage them to check out our CQFO program. A higher wage structure, the opportunity to start earning PIC time, and upgrades in less than a year are all compelling reasons to consider making a move. Plus, you’ll earn a $1,500 referral bonus for every pilot candidate you recommend that is hired and completes training. Everyone wins!